I just published an article on how to assemble a very decent spotting scope for less than $250 (YMMV). This is what I use when I shoot at longer ranges (1000 yards).
For competition and bench shooting this works very well. I would not use this for hiking with the recommended tripod as it would be too heavy; with a lightweight mini tripod it would be manageable.
www.jamerllc.com
For competition and bench shooting this works very well. I would not use this for hiking with the recommended tripod as it would be too heavy; with a lightweight mini tripod it would be manageable.
Build Your Own Killer Spotting Scope — JAMER (TM)
Quick version: - Buy a used Meade ETX90 for about $100 plus shipping. - Buy a new or used 25mm Plossl telescope eyepiece for about $20. - Buy a very sturdy video tripod for about $120 new (less for used). - Put it all together, and you have a GREAT 50X spotting scope, for less than $250, that is
www.jamerllc.com 
